A group of Moss Point residents gather across the street from City Hall Wednesday evening to protest Mayor Billy Broomfield's veto of the board of alderman's vote to hire Calvin Hutchins as the city's police chief. (Gareth Clary / gulflive.com)

MOSS POINT, Mississippi -- Moss Point Mayor Billy Broomfield said his decision to veto the Board of Alderman's 4-3 decision to hire Calvin Hutchins was because he feels that the sergeant with the Pascagoula Police Department doesn't have the administrative experience, training or certifications needed for the position.

"This administration is committed to making sure we hire the best qualified people for leadership positions to take us to the next level," he said. "The police department is no exception. This is our duty."

Broomfield said that between Hutchins and interim chief Art McClung, McClung is more qualified with both state and national certifications.

"When it comes to administrative experience, training, and certifications, Hutchins is not as qualified," said Broomfield. "The board will have an opportunity at our next meeting to vote up or down on the veto."

It will take five votes to override Broomfield's veto, meaning the four that voted for Hutchins will need to pick up another vote.

A protester at Moss Point City Hall demonstrates his feelings about Mayor Billy Broomfield's veto of the selection of Calvin Hutchins as police chief. (Gareth Clary / gulflive)

Meanwhile, some members of the Moss Point community that conducted a petition drive to support Hutchins are not happy with Broomfield's decision.

A group of protesters gathered across the street from City Hall Wednesday evening, carrying signs that read "Keep Calvin, Fire Billy," "Billy The Bully," and "Broomfield's veto is a poor decision."

Social media sites are inundated with comments about the veto calling it "ridiculous and arrogant."

Patrice Pickett was involved in helping collect signatures in support of hiring Hutchins and said she is outraged about the mayor's decision. She and a group of supporters are planning a town meeting to voice their concerns.

"It's the people's choice, so why go against that. The reason he has given is not justifiable," she said.

Pickett says she and other community members are coming together to organize a town meeting.

They are asking citizens to meet them on the steps of City Hall at 5:30 Thursday.

"We cannot let this happen," said Pickett. "I want to encourage all citizens to call their alderman and voice their opinions. We are starting a new petition, and I vow to have 500 signatures by Saturday."